Flatland Resources was hired as design-build contractors to permit, design, and construct trail improvements at Mounds State Park along the White River in Anderson, Indiana. Because of its proximity to high bluffs, valley formations, and seep wetlands, approximately 700 feet of trail was repaired along the river that had become susceptible to flooding and erosion problems over many years.

The trail design included placing drainage tiles along the uphill side of roughly 600’ of trail which helped funnel the water under the trail and not over top of it. A vegetated geolift berm under the trail helped stabilize the trail edge and created a naturalized edge allowing for additional permeability. The trail was then reinstalled with a new stone base that was ADA compliant.

The project also included new culverts that could handle the drainage area volumes of water, regrading of adjacent hill slopes, and installation of live fascines of dogwood and willows.

Previously, retaining walls had been used on two of the steeper slopes down to the river in an attempt to control erosion. However, over time, these retaining walls had failed, and needed to be replaced. Live coir fascines were incorporated into the hillside that were previously stabilized by timber walls. The coir fascines not only deter erosion, but also allow for the growth of willows and dogwood that will stabilize the slope over time as well as retard water flows.